Late Night News battles to Christmas Cheer final victory
Late Night News showcased his resilience and class with a determined victory in the Christmas Cheer Final at Wentworth Park, holding off a late surge from Bandit Daryl to win by a quarter of a length.
The $1.50 BlondeBet favourite, trained by Mary Hughes, stopped the clock at 41.92 seconds over the grueling 720m trip, securing the $15,000 winner’s prize.
Breaking from box two, Late Night News initially settled behind the fast-starting Ritza Piper, who carved across from a wide draw to lead early.
As the race unfolded, Late Night News asserted his authority, moving up alongside the leader and taking control.
Despite a strong challenge from Bandit Daryl in the home straight, the Fernando Bale–Zipping Kelly progeny dug deep to maintain his lead.
Canya Amy finished third, while early leader Ritza Piper faded to fourth.
Christmas Cheer Final Race Replay – Late Night News (41.92)
Hughes expressed her satisfaction with the win, particularly in light of the challenges associated with back-to-back 720m runs.
“A lot of stayers don’t go as well at their second go over 720m,” Hughes told The Dogs.
“It seems the first run flattens them to some extent. So I was happy Late Night News lifted in the run home when he looked like he might get run down.”
This was Late Night News’ seventh win from just 15 starts, taking his prize money earnings to $36,570.
Known for his consistency, he has recorded a win or place rate of 80% and continues to impress with his staying prowess.
Bandit Daryl, trained by Arthur Langman, closed strongly and lost no admirers with his performance, while Canya Amy demonstrated her stamina and ability to adapt to the 720m distance by finishing a respectable third.
The Christmas Cheer Final showcased Late Night News’ ability to handle pressure and perform under testing conditions, solidifying his status as a rising star in the staying ranks.
With further opportunities ahead, including potential staying features, Late Night News has set the stage for an exciting future.
Christmas Cheer 2024 Results – Wentworth Park
2024 Christmas Cheer Results |
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| 1st |
2 Late Night News
T: Mary HughesTime: 41.92Margin:
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| 2nd |
8 Bandit Daryl
T: Arthur LangmanTime: 41.94Margin: 0.25 Lengths
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| 3rd |
4 Canya Amy
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| 4th |
7 Ritza Piper
T: Joseph ScerriTime: 42.46Margin: 7.75 Lengths
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